SPECIAL REPORTS

How One Hospital Lost Two of its Best NeurologistsIn 2007, the American Medical Association conducted an investigation of medical peer reviews, finding that 15% of the surveyed physicians were aware of peer review misuse or abuse. In July 2013, the California Medical Association and the American Medical Association jointly filed a legal brief in the California Supreme Court noting that there is a “continuing great need to have whistleblower protections for medical staff physicians who face adverse peer review decisions.” Critics charge that the review process is a “sham” that is often used to eliminate whistleblowers, while those physicians who may pose a genuine threat often seem to go unnoticed.Added August 14, 2014.

Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry
The Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry held its first public hearing on Monday, January 13, 2014, marking the fourth public session of the Inquiry into abuse in residential institutions in Northern Ireland. The Inquiry is examining allegations of child abuse in children’s homes and other residential institutions spanning the period of 1922 to 1995.Added January 16, 2014.

Zero Tolerance Programs
Zero tolerance programs in the public schools have often been criticized for being overly harsh and punitive in nature. Critics contend that these policies are often administered in an arbitrary manner. An emerging body of literature indicates that this policy is wholly without empirically-validated support, and that scientific reviews have found no evidence whatsoever that zero tolerance prevents school violence.
Added January 11, 2014

Australian Inquiries Continue Review Of Long-Term Abuses In Institutional Foster CareAn in-depth look into abuse in institutional foster care, with a particular emphasis on recent developments in Australia, Ireland, and Canada. Also examined are the related issues of forced adoptions, the over-representation of minority populations in foster care, and other issues universally related to child protection. Related resources are clearly presented alongside the article for further exploration. Added January 2, 2014.